Scoring goal after goal for the Bobcats, including one at City, Espinal brings his own flair to the Kickers attack for 2025
The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce that Darwin Espinal will sign a multi-year contract with the side, pending league and federation approval. The former Golden Ball winner at the Maryland Bobcats gets ready to bang in goals for the River City faithful.
“We have watched Darwin for a long time and he has delivered some memorable plays and some memorable goals during his time in the USL Championship and the last couple years with the Maryland Bobcats in NISA,” Chief Sporting Officer and Head Coach Darren Sawatzky. “We are excited to add him to the attacking core here in Richmond and his veteran presence will pay dividends with the young players as well as the seasoned veterans looking to win games and chase trophies.”
Kickers fans may most recently remember Espinal from his Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup performance at City Stadium. Though the Kickers would eventually put the game on ice, Espinal scored for the Maryland Bobcats in round two of the Cup. Sending a screamer into the back of the net from well outside the box, Espinal put the Bobcats within one before the Kickers pulled away, ultimately winning 5-2.
Outside of Open Cup play, Espinal was very productive for the Bobcats in 2023 and 2024. IN his first year with the club, he scored 11 goals and provided 5 assists. The following year he scored 13 goals across 22 appearances in 2024, winning the NISA Golden Boot in 2024. The main attacking threat for the Bobcats side that had an impressive 17-game unbeaten streak en route to their NISA regular season title in 2024, Espinal’s time with the Bobcats became the most productive period in his career, a fact the midfielder will look to replicate if not exceed in his time with the Kickers.
“I’m honored to represent the Richmond Kickers this season,” Espinal said. “Our focus is on delivering quality performances, earning wins, and creating a positive experience for our fans. We’re committed to making this a season to remember for both the club and its supporters.”
The Honduras native played for their U23 national team in 2015 and made 5 appearances before he took to the professional pitch.
Espinal started his professional career with the Tampa Bay Rowdies, making 25 appearances and scoring four goals. The midfielder then moved around a bit before landing at the New York Cosmos for two years. With their B team, Espinal scored 9 goals before being moved up and making 5 appearances on the main roster. He then played for both the Oakland Roots and Detroit City on loan.
Espinal and the rest of the Kickers side will return to City Stadium on March 22! Season Tickets are available NOW! Be a part of every out-of-your-seat experience! Additional information can be found at richmondkickers.com/seasontickets.
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